Out of 1,041 proposals that were presented, the National Science Foundation chose FHSU's proposal of "Integrating Exemplary Physics Science Teacher Enhancement Materials with Mathematics for Preservice Middle School Teachers." The grant will now lead to a new class for FHSU students.

The purpose of the project is to develop mathematics and science courses aimed at future and current middle school science teachers.

"This course will be unique not only because it will be a science course with math integrated, but it will not be a lecture course, but rather an application type of course," said Adams.

According to research by the team, students tend to lose interest in mathematics and science at the middle school level, a loss often attributed to ill-prepared teachers. In this context, FHSU has developed a two-semester course that focuses on developing more application methods of teaching to replace the typical lecture methods.

"This type of course is not only needed in Kansas but nationally due to the under preparation of students who are going to go on to teach middle school science," said Adams.

The class will be initiated during the fall 2002 semester and will be team taught by Adams and Eltze. Students will not have to purchase a text and will be provided supplies for class projects. For more information on the class contact Adams by phone at (785) 628-4500 or by e-mail at padams@fhsu.edu.